The Palestinian Unity government has been sworn in. Two of our regional allies, Egypt and Saudi Arabia are urging the United States to recognize the new government. Norway and Ireland have already recognized the new government and are urging for a lifting of the economic sanctions against the Palestinian Authority. Great Britain, France and Germany have also signalled intentions to recognize the new government and ease the economic sanctions.
The Arab League meets on March 28, and is expected to reaffirm endorsement of the 2002 Saudi Peace Plan. Israel has indicated that they will not recognize the new government and will only deal with Abbas. The US has indicated that they wiill keep sanctions n place, but will be more flexible in dealing with non-HAmas ministers on a case by case basis.
By Adam Entous
JERUSALEM, March 18 (Reuters) - The United States said on Sunday its ban on direct aid to the Palestinian government would remain in place but it broke ranks with Israel by authorising contacts with some members of the new unity administration.
The U.S. consulate in Jerusalem said Washington would continue to shun Hamas ministers in the power-sharing cabinet but permit contacts with non-Hamas members on a case-by-case basis depending on developments.
The decision to allow some contacts marked a shift in U.S. policy and a break with Israel, which has vowed to boycott the new government in its entirety, including non-Hamas ministers.
Earlier on Sunday, Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert ruled out resuming talks on Palestinian statehood with President Mahmoud Abbas and urged the international community to shun the government established on Saturday.
Olmert's cabinet approved his policy, officials said.
Reuters
So, the US is caught between allies with competing demands and desires. Now, hypothetically, if you were advising a Democratic Presidential Candidate, what position do you think is best?